If you’ve decided to select a new Nissan sedan as your next ride, you likely want to know what the Nissan Sentra vs. Altima differences are – whether it’s the more powerful Altima or the more efficient Sentra. Our guide below will cover how these premier sedans stack up. Read on for our Nissan Sentra vs. Altima comparison, then visit Bravo Nissan to test drive models.
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Specifications |
2025 Nissan Altima S |
2025 Nissan Sentra S |
|
Engine |
2.5L 4-cyl | 2.0L 4-Cyl |
|
Horsepower |
188 | 149 |
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Torque |
180 lb-ft | 146 lb-ft |
|
EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) |
27 / 39 / 321 | 30 / 40 / 342 |
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Transmission |
Xtronic CVT | Xtronic CVT |
|
Drivetrain |
Standard FWD | Standard FWD |
|
0-60 MPH |
7.6 Sec3 | 8.9 Sec4 |
With one glance, we can understand the Nissan Altima vs. Sentra performance comparison: the Altima is a more powerful, faster-accelerating sedan, while the Sentra stands on top for fuel efficiency. It’s important to be mindful that the Sentra has a significantly lower starting price than the Altima; see the details in the Nissan Altima vs. Sentra trims section below.
But moving back to Nissan Altima vs. Nissan Sentra specs, we see noteworthy differences like how the Altima offers available AWD, while the Sentra is limited to FWD. However, the base Altima S and top-trim Altima VC-Turbo are similar to the Sentra in that they are also limited to FWD. So, if you happen to be heading far north from Texas or prefer the traction of AWD when it rains, the Altima is the better choice for you.
However, the Sentra is a better choice if MPG is your priority, as this sleek model can deliver an extra three EPA-estimated City MPG1, 2 than the most efficient Altima. Regardless of power and efficiency, an Xtronic CVT is used by both models to provide a smooth ride.
When comparing the Nissan Altima vs. Sentra, keep in mind as well that the Sentra is a more maneuverable vehicle. While it’s unable to equal the Altima sedan’s top 0-60 mph time of 7.6 seconds,3 the Sentra takes on city streets and packed parking lots with a more agile wheelbase and exterior, balancing the benefits between them.
|
Specifications |
2025 Nissan Altima S |
2025 Nissan Sentra S |
|
Length |
192.9 in | 182.9 in |
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Width |
72.9 in | 71.5 in |
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Height |
56.7 in | 56.9 in |
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Ground Clearance |
4.9 in | 4.8 in |
|
Passenger Capacity |
5 | 5 |
|
Passenger Volume |
100.6 cu ft | 96.1 cu ft |
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Cargo Space (Trunk) |
15.4 cu ft | 14.3 cu ft |
|
Legroom (Front/Rear) |
43.8 / 35.2 in | 43.8 / 34.9 in |
While we can clearly see that the Altima is bigger, there’s a more interesting fact to cover when comparing Nissan Sentra vs. Altima sizing: the Sentra has near-equal interior space across almost every dimension.
Specifically from our chart, the Sentra only sacrifices 1.1 cubic feet of cargo space, 0.3 inches of rear legroom, and 0.1 inches of ground clearance to offer its enhanced maneuverability over the Altima. Considering that the Altima is a full 10 inches longer, 1.4 inches wider, and up to 0.2 inches taller than the Sentra, this ability to maintain larger-segment interior room in a smaller vehicle makes the Sentra quite competitive.
The Nissan Sentra vs. Altima dimensions are impressive on their own. The Altima is still a more spacious vehicle that’s incredibly maneuverable and compares favorably against many sedans in its class.
If you’re interested in a pre-owned version, check out our used Sentra inventory.
When you compare Sentra versus Altima price points at each trim level, you’ll notice that every 2025 Nissan Sentra has a lower starting price MSRP than the base-trim 2025 Nissan Altima. For the Altima, trim levels available to you are as follows:
The Sentra can be yours in one of the following trims:
You can experience the trim of your choice when you take advantage of our Sentra lease deals.
The Altima vs. Sentra trim levels involve more choice in the Altima but more affordability in the Sentra. So, how do they compare? Starting with the base-trim Altima S, you’ll get the following features as standard:
Meanwhile, the top-trim Sentra SR Midnight Edition, which has a lower starting price than the Altima S, gives you the following standard features:
As you can see, these models are fairly even, with factors like the Sentra SR sedan’s smaller body and less powerful engine accounting for the gap in pricing that remains.
However, if you spring for a Altima lease deals or finance options at our auto dealership and find higher Altima trims, you’ll notice that the Sentra can not equal the features they bring. For example, the Altima has an available eight-way driver’s seat and includes both leather upholstery and the ProPILOT Assist as standard on higher trim levels; the Sentra does not.
Of course, you can always choose one of our used Altima options to bring the sticker price on your Altima down.
While both models have excellent perks, they are built to protect. Both models come with Nissan Safety Shield® 360 and can include the following safety features:
If you’re looking for fast facts to summarize the 2025 Nissan Sentra vs. Altima comparison, here are the key advantages of each model:
There’s more to each model, though. If you’re ready to further narrow your search for a new Nissan sedan, visit Bravo Nissan today to learn the full benefits of the Nissan Sentra or Altima with a test drive and explore our new vehicle specials to take your winner home for a deal.
Between the Nissan Sentra and the Nissan Altima, both can achieve impressive longevity. All you need to do is be mindful of your driving habits and stay on top of regular maintenance needs. This includes tasks like oil changes, tire rotations, and addressing any recalls that may come up during your ownership. Do this, and your Sentra or Altima will perform for many miles down the road.
The Nissan Sentra is popular for several reasons. It’s incredibly budget-friendly, with the highest Sentra trim level costing less than the base Altima. Plus, the Sentra is very fuel efficient, meaning less time at the pump and more time on the road. With its compact size, exciting tech, and impressive safety features, this compact sedan is great for new and veteran drivers alike.
Both the Nissan Sentra and the Nissan Altima are reliable options. They both offer excellent fuel economy, and they’re equipped with a number of driver-assist features like Automatic Emergency Braking with Pedestrian Detection, Intelligent Driver Alertness, and Lane Departure Warning. Plus, with the performance specs to take on everything from short trips to longer journeys, you’ll be in good hands at the wheel of either model.
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12024 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 27 City MPG / 39 Highway MPG / 32 Combined MPG for Altima® S, SV FWD. 27 City MPG / 37 Highway MPG / 31 Combined MPG for Altima® SR, SL FWD. 26 City MPG / 36 Highway MPG / 30 Combined MPG for Altima® SV, SR, SL AWD. 25 City MPG / 34 Highway MPG / 29 Combined MPG for Altima® SR FWD VC-Turbo. Fuel economy estimates based on 87-octane fuel. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
22024 EPA Fuel Economy Estimates. 30 City MPG / 40 Highway MPG / 34 Combined MPG for Sentra® S, SV; 30 City MPG / 38 Highway MPG / 33 Combined MPG for Sentra SR. Actual mileage may vary with driving conditions. Use for comparison only.
3This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/nissan/altima.
4This information is not verified by the official manufacturer and shall serve solely as unofficial general information. For details, visit: https://www.caranddriver.com/nissan/sentra.